PV plan recommended

By COLLIN MCRANNSun Advocate reporter

In a near-unanimous vote, the county planning and zoning panel decided to recommend the Scofield Pleasant Valley Plan to the Carbon County Commission. The plan, which was amended to allow for more quasi-commercial endeavors than its earlier versions, was approved on Jan. 5. Although some zoning issues were raised, it will be considered for final approval.

"What we're trying to get are quasi-commercial (developments) because one thing brought out by all the public comments was there's not enough service in the Scofield area. We're not talking about residential (zoning)," said Dave Levanger, director of planning.

Lynna Topolovec spoke in opposition to the plan as it stands. She indicated that her main concern is water quality in the reservoir.

"We need to make sure that we validate the developments to a size that will restrict pollution," she said. "I just have a concern with reducing and creating one-acre lots."

Specifically, the lot sizes that caused concern were the quasi-commercial ones, because they would be allowed one-acre lots instead of the larger residential ones. However, Levanger made it clear that the one-acre lots would be confined to highway frontage and not available to residential development. A few other concerns about the plan were addressed, including a future water quality study which will likely be conducted by the state. While the study is still in the planning process, it would be extensive, according to Levanger.

"I met with the Division of Water Quality. They're coming up with an extensive water survey, but it probably won't be covering surface water, because budgets are tight," he said.

As the plan is not yet adopted, it could undergo future changes, but it looks as if it will be approved. According to County Attorney Christian Bryner, the plan will provide a tool for future clarifications regarding planning in the area.

In other business, the board reviewed the county natural resources management plan and decided to make a few clarifications. One area in particular that drew attention was the plan's definition of rights of way, because concerns were raised regarding their specificity.

"You can't stretch a sewer right of way into a road because of common and statutory requirements," said Levanger.

It was eventually decided to add a disclaimer that the document refers to the common and statutory laws. A few other issues were raised such as the handling of noxious weeds, definitions of bacteria and pollutants, sagebrush densities, grazing on public lands and fire protection. Although nothing was approved, clarifications will be made.